1892-1893 So-Called Dollar HK-165, Bird'S-Eye View Dollar

Coin Details

Description

The 1892 Bird'S-Eye View so-called dollar (HK-165) is a commemorative piece from the World's Columbian Exposition series. The Columbian Exposition introduced Americans to alternating current electricity (demonstrated by Westinghouse and Tesla), the zipper, Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, and Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. The bronze composition of this piece reflects the medallic tradition dating to classical antiquity. Bronze so-called dollars typically survive in better condition than white metal examples due to the alloy's greater hardness and durability. Both the U.S. Mint and numerous private firms struck Columbian medals. Charles Barber designed official mint issues. The exposition also generated the first U.S. commemorative coins (Columbian half dollar). Barber's clean, classical engraving style defined the look of official American exposition medals for over three decades of world's fairs. Harold Hibler and Charles Kappen spent decades cataloging American dollar-sized medals, creating a reference work that transformed a scattered collecting field into an organized numismatic specialty.

Rarity Notes

HK-165 is scarce in the numismatic market. Production quantities for Gilded Age commemorative medals were typically modest, and survival rates vary significantly based on the original distribution method and the material's durability.

Cross References

HK-165; PCGS #642437; NGC #850291